Sleep – The Good Bodyhttps://www.thegoodbody.com
Fri, 13 Sep 2019 20:46:07 +0000 en-US
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1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.1.2Acupressure Mat Benefits: 23 Reasons to Roll out Your Mat Today!https://www.thegoodbody.com/acupressure-mat-benefits/
https://www.thegoodbody.com/acupressure-mat-benefits/#respondSun, 09 Jun 2019 00:01:22 +0000https://www.thegoodbody.com/?p=7093Acupressure is an ancient Chinese therapy that is practiced by health professionals around the world. However plenty choose to enjoy the treatment in their own home! With chronic pain statistics showing that many are trying alternative therapies to cope with daily pain, it’s certainly worth a try when you see the many benefits of using …

8: Increases energy levels

Acupressure has been shown to help with fatigue and to increase energy levels.

An experimental study at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan focused on patients suffering from hepatocellular carcinoma, the most common type of liver cancer.

Findings proved that acupressure can improve fatigue, and it was recommended that educational guides should be created to help patients take advantage of the therapy.

9: Improves mental health

Through a major study in 2015 it was found that depression, anxiety and stress can be positively impacted by acupressure.

Subjects were given treatment three times a week for four weeks and the results were positive.

It was found to significantly reduce depression, stress and anxiety, in this case for patients with end stage renal disease on hemodialysis.

10: Better digestion

It might seem like an unlikely benefit, but acupressure has been shown to improve the quality of life for those suffering from digestion problems.

A 2015 research project looked at perineal self-acupressure which aided in the movement of bowel function and generally was found to improve the wellbeing and quality of life of those suffering from constipation.

11: Healthier complexion

Many manufacturers promote the fact that acupressure therapy, when applied directly to the face, can have a positive impact on your complexion.

Michael Reed Gach, PhD, an expert on acupressure therapy does suggest that the technique brings more oxygen to the skin which in turn improves the appearance.

However currently there is little evidence to substantiate the claims.

]]>https://www.thegoodbody.com/acupressure-mat-benefits/feed/010 Incredible Health Benefits of Sleeping next to Someone You Lovehttps://www.thegoodbody.com/benefits-of-sleeping-next-to-someone/
https://www.thegoodbody.com/benefits-of-sleeping-next-to-someone/#commentsMon, 13 May 2019 00:01:28 +0000https://www.thegoodbody.com/?p=6884There’s a growing body of research all about the benefits of sharing your bed with a partner. From improving your psychiatric well-being to improving your overall health, we have the reasons why it’s great sleeping next to someone you love! 1: Experience better sleep quality We all strive for good sleep quality but we don’t …

]]>There’s a growing body of research all about the benefits of sharing your bed with a partner.

From improving your psychiatric well-being to improving your overall health, we have the reasons why it’s great sleeping next to someone you love!

1: Experience better sleep quality

We all strive for good sleep quality but we don’t always get it, especially if we’re laying there on our own.

Did you know that sleeping beside someone, especially if you’re in a solid relationship, is a good way to help you on your path to good quality slumber?

Wendy M. Troxel, Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Psychology at the University of Pittsburgh, unearthed that women in stable relationships fell asleep faster and had less sleep disturbances in the night than single women, or those whose relationship status changed during the experiment.

2: Fall asleep faster

Surely time taken to fall asleep doesn’t matter as long as we fall asleep, right?

They stimulate the release of a cocktail of chemicals that can help you on your way to a great night’s sleep.

These include:

Oxytocin (the love hormone)

Serotonin (contributes to wellbeing and happiness)

Norepinephrine (helps to regulate sleep and balances responses to stress)

Vasopressin (increases sleep quality and decreases cortisol)

Prolactin (associated with improving the immune system, great sleep and quality of life)

There’s more! For women, a good night’s sleep will increase their sexual desires.

A study in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, has revealed that there’s a 14 per cent increase in the likelihood of sex after sleeping the optimal amount, with more sleep associated with better genital arousal.

4: Lowers your blood pressure

A massive benefit of sleeping next to someone you love is that it can help you live a longer life!

As neuroscientist Matthew Walker explains in the international bestseller Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams, melatonin, sometimes referred to as the ‘hormone of darkness’ as it’s released at nighttime, is important as it influences the sleep/wake cycle.

]]>https://www.thegoodbody.com/benefits-of-sleeping-next-to-someone/feed/18 Sleep Mask Benefits: Black It All out Tonight for Blissfully Deep Slumberhttps://www.thegoodbody.com/sleep-mask-benefits/
https://www.thegoodbody.com/sleep-mask-benefits/#respondWed, 17 Apr 2019 00:01:01 +0000https://www.thegoodbody.com/?p=6749We’re all not nearly getting enough good quality slumber, with only 21 per cent of Americans getting the recommended seven to eight hours a night. Light is an external factor that can play havoc with our bodies and affect our shut-eye. With black-out curtains a luxury we can’t all carry around with us, we need …

They discovered that the blue light suppressed melatonin for about twice as long as the green light and shifted circadian rhythms by twice as much (3 hours vs. 1.5 hours).

5: Reduces depression

A sleep mask can do wonders for your mental health.

A longitudinal study, involving more than 800 Japanese adults, has also indicated that getting shut-eye in complete darkness reduces depression.

Through this experiment, people who saw more than five lux at night (to put this into context, 10 lux is like looking at a candle from about 10 foot away) were more likely to develop symptoms of depression, as opposed to those sleeping in complete darkness.

]]>https://www.thegoodbody.com/sleep-mask-benefits/feed/08 of the Best Yoga Poses for Sleep: Nod off Faster and Wake up Fresherhttps://www.thegoodbody.com/yoga-poses-for-sleep/
https://www.thegoodbody.com/yoga-poses-for-sleep/#respondMon, 15 Apr 2019 00:01:29 +0000https://www.thegoodbody.com/?p=6683Not only is yoga proven to help you fall asleep quicker and sleep better, there are certain poses that are particularly known to induce and improve the quality of your sleep. So bend and stretch your way to a great night’s rest with our list of the best yoga poses for sleep. 1. Legs-Up-The-Wall Pose …

]]>https://www.thegoodbody.com/yoga-poses-for-sleep/feed/0Benefits of Meditation: 42 (Life-Changing) Reasons to Start Todayhttps://www.thegoodbody.com/benefits-of-meditation/
https://www.thegoodbody.com/benefits-of-meditation/#respondWed, 10 Apr 2019 00:01:14 +0000https://www.thegoodbody.com/?p=6531Americans practicing meditation has more than tripled since 2012, and it’s no wonder when you consider the many benefits that meditation offers. Take a look at our extensive list of health benefits and consider just what meditation could do for your wellbeing. 1: Maintains General Wellness When asked in a survey why they practice, regular …

However don’t worry, you don’t need to show quite the same dedication! Researchers in Korea took 46 experienced meditators who had been practicing for around 2 to 5 years and 46 beginners with no experience.

Despite only practicing for 2 to 5 years, the brains of the experienced meditators did show distinct differences compared to the beginners, particularly in the areas responsible for memory and concentration.

“If you have unproductive worries, you can train yourself to experience those thoughts completely differently. Mindfulness teaches you to recognize, ‘Oh, there’s that thought again. I’ve been here before. But it’s just that—a thought, and not a part of my core self’”.

Even those new to meditation can instantly see results. A study on 32 young male adults in India found that if meditation was practiced before an impending stressful event, feelings of stress and anxiety were reduced.

8: Helps with Depression

One of the greatest mental health benefits of meditation is its positive impact on depression.

In fact, a large scale review which looked at mindfulness based practices, including meditation, concluded that it had a positive impact on a number of conditions, however mostly notably on depression.

9: Improves Sleep

Long-needed research in 2015 looked at the sleep issues of older adults. It found that meditation intervention had helped to improve sleep problems in the short term and improve their general overall quality of life.

14: Can Reduce Anger

Researchers at the University of Kansas have proven how the anger of experienced and novice meditators can be controlled with meditation.

Subjects were placed in anger-inducing scenarios, however after just one session of meditation they reacted less angrily than they had done before.

Their breathing was slower and their blood pressure decreased. Interestingly, though the study involved both beginner and seasoned meditators the results were no different, just one session of meditation had the same positive impact.

15: Helps with Decision Making

If you’re one of those people that really struggles to make decisions then meditation might be able to help.

Published studies show us that regular meditation helps to focus the mind, encouraging us to trust our intuition and develop positive decision-making behaviors.

16: Encourages Mindfulness

Meditation is a mindfulness practice so it’s no surprise that it encourages mindful behavior.

Not only did the practice help with associated conditions such as depression but meditation also helped to significantly reduce pro-inflammatory gene expression potentially helping to stop the recurrence of the cancer.

32: Helps those with Coronary Heart Disease

Currently little research has been done comparing the benefits of meditation with other therapies used for Coronary Heart Disease.

34: Helps Stroke Survivors

Positive feedback was given from stroke survivors to the effectiveness of meditation during a 2018 study.

The focus of the program of meditation was to help stroke patients cope with the negative thoughts and emotions they had associated with their condition.

Feedback suggested that sessions were found to be most effective when they were short and able to be incorporated in to everyday life.

35: Aids those Suffering from Asthma

Though it’s felt that further research is still needed there has been a vast amount of information to suggest that meditation can help those suffering from asthma.

A comprehensive review in 2018 looked at a number of studies that found that it can help with quality of life, and reduce the need for short-term medication solutions.

36: Helps People with Psoriasis

Relief from psoriasis is a surprising benefit of meditation. However for those receiving ultraviolet light therapy for lesions, healing rates were shown to increase if they also listened to guided meditation whilst receiving the treatment.

Even if the guided meditation was only for a short period it was still shown to have a positive impact.

37: Helps with the Effects of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Researchers looking at women with Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), particularly those suffering with associated feelings of anxiety or depression, reflected that little is done to understand and help treat the condition.

Their 2016 study focussed on meditation and how it could be used as a treatment option.

Results showed it was effective, particularly for women with mild to moderate PMS.

38: Encourages Weight Loss

For those looking to control their weight, meditation can help! Researchers from Pittsburg hoping to find solutions for the obesity epidemic, considered the power of meditation.

]]>https://www.thegoodbody.com/benefits-of-meditation/feed/012 Health Benefits of Sleeping Naked: Ditch Your Bedclothes (Tonight)https://www.thegoodbody.com/benefits-of-sleeping-naked/
https://www.thegoodbody.com/benefits-of-sleeping-naked/#respondWed, 06 Mar 2019 00:01:19 +0000https://www.thegoodbody.com/?p=6364The most recent National Sleep Foundation’s global survey and “bedroom poll” has revealed that one in three adults sleep in the nude. It’s no surprise it keeps you cooler but did you know it’s actually healthier? We’re about to tell you some hard-hitting naked truths that will make you want to ditch your bedclothes. 1: …

]]>The most recent National Sleep Foundation’s global survey and “bedroom poll” has revealed that one in three adults sleep in the nude. It’s no surprise it keeps you cooler but did you know it’s actually healthier?

We’re about to tell you some hard-hitting naked truths that will make you want to ditch your bedclothes.

1: Better sleep quality

A sure-fire way to gain good slumber is to remove all layers as it will help reduce your body temperature.

3: Prevents diseases

A team of researchers from the University of Warwick and the Medical School and State University of New York, have unearthed the alarming link between sleep quality, duration and diseases.

The comprehensive exploration, using six years of data, reveals that people who sleep less than six hours a night could be three times more likely to develop conditions that lead to diabetes, strokes and heart attacks.

7: Improves male fertility

For men hoping to become fathers, going commando in between the sheets is the way to go.

According to an extensive study by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Maryland, and Stanford University, sleeping in boxer shorts or pajamas could be harmful for sperm production and decrease the chances of having a baby.

Five hundred men were followed for up to 12 months, tracking their underwear choices, and monitoring the quality of their sperm.

Men that wore boxers during the day and were naked at night, had 25 per cent less DNA fragmentation in their sperm compared with men who wore underwear during the night and day.

Allen Pacey, leading fertility expert and Professor of Andrology at the University of Sheffield (UK), claimed that men with an increased temperature in their testicles, have weaker sperm quality than those who keep their testicles cooler.

8: Better sex life

Do you want a better sex life? Then remove your clothes before hitting the sack.

Sleeping in the nude beside your partner may result in you having a healthier sex life than your clothed counterparts.

Fifty-seven percent of those who sleep in the nude reported being happy in their relationships compared with 48 percent of those in pajamas, 43 percent of nightie wearers, and 38 percent of those who sleep in onesies.

9: Boosts self-esteem

Sleeping naked can lead to you feeling better about yourself.

Being dissatisfied with your body image can be detrimental to your overall life satisfaction levels.

This is a global phenomenon affecting both men and women. It’s dangerous, as an examination of this very topic has demonstrated that it can lead to eating disorder behaviors, depression and low self-esteem.

Three studies have proven that ditching the clothes can lead to greater life satisfaction, more positive body image and higher self-esteem.

10: Builds confidence

When you feel good, you’re more successful in all elements of your life. Confidence is a powerful force – it decreases fear and anxiety, increases motivation, makes you more resilient and improves your relationships.

12: Reduces the chance of infection

This one is for the women out there! Apart from being free and more comfortable when you remove your nightwear, you’re also allowing your genitals to breathe.

You’re providing the best air condition possible and reducing the likelihood of infections.

Dr. Alyssa Dweck (an obstetrician and gynecologist in Mount Kisco, New York, and a clinical assistant professor of OB/GYN at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City) has explained that yeast and bacteria thrive in dark, warm places like panties so when you take these off, it removes irritation.

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https://www.thegoodbody.com/benefits-of-sleeping-naked/feed/014 Health Benefits of Sleeping Early (Supercharge Your Life Tonight!)https://www.thegoodbody.com/benefits-of-sleeping-early/
https://www.thegoodbody.com/benefits-of-sleeping-early/#respondWed, 06 Feb 2019 17:29:27 +0000https://www.thegoodbody.com/?p=6131‘Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man, healthy, wealthy and wise’ were the words uttered by Benjamin Franklin (one of the founding fathers of the United States). Science has shown there’s some truth in these words about the importance of hitting the pillow early, but this works best in conjunction with getting the …

]]>‘Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man, healthy, wealthy and wise’ were the words uttered by Benjamin Franklin (one of the founding fathers of the United States).

Science has shown there’s some truth in these words about the importance of hitting the pillow early, but this works best in conjunction with getting the recommended seven-eight hours (which many of us fail to do).

Sleep is a powerful force that dispenses a multitude of life-changing benefits – from making us more productive, to prolonging our lives.

Check out our top 14 benefits of sleeping early – all backed-up with solid scientific evidence.

1: Better sleep quality

Be wary of burning the midnight oil because there’s a clear link between sleeping early and improved sleep quality.

Matthew Walker, leading sleep expert (currently Professor of Neuroscience and Psychology at the University of California, as well as founder and director of the Center for Human Sleep Science), in his New York Times bestseller Why We Sleep: The New Science of Sleep and Dreams explains the science behind this:

Sleep is made up of 90-minute cycles, during which the brain moves from deep non-rapid eye movement (non-REM) sleep to rapid eye movement (REM).

The cycles remain fairly consistent but the split between non-REM and REM changes.

Non-REM dominates the cycle in the early part of the night and then REM takes over as we move closer to daybreak.

Why does this matter?

Non-REM sleep is much deeper and restorative than REM (although both provide different benefits).

This scientific analysis is supported by (the aforementioned) Walker, who states that sleeping less than the six or seven hours a night doubles the risk of cancer, with insufficient sleep being a key lifestyle factor determining whether of not someone will develop Alzeheimer’s disease.

3: A healthier heart

There’s another life-saving benefit of slumber: it keeps the heart healthy as it lowers blood pressure.

High blood pressure seems to be on the rise in the US. It’s been reported that 75 million American adults suffer from it – alarmingly, that amounts to one in every three!

As high blood pressure increases the risk of heart disease and stroke, sleep could improve the quality of your life or even save it.

Pin it for later!

6: Feel happier

Getting a good night’s shut-eye could be the route to happiness.

Going to bed early means that you’re likely to rise early, and sunlight can be enjoyed for longer the following day (especially in the winter months). You can even invest in a sunlight simulator for dark mornings.

Research carried out by the Oxford Economics and the National Centre for Social Research earlier this year, discovered that people in the UK rated sleep as the key to happiness – this is was above a good sex life, health of our close relatives, strong connections in the community and job security.

Sleep quality is at the top of the list for ensuring people’s wellbeing.

8: Strengthens the immune system

Those experiencing shorter sleep duration and insomniacs are more likely to have a depressed immune system, in comparison to someone who has the recommended seven-eight hours worth of sleep.

The time you head to bed is more important than you may realize!

Renowned neurologist Dr David Perlmutter has stated (in The Grain Brain Whole Life Plan) that after 10pm the body metabolizes a lot of waste products, and during 11pm-2am, the immune system recharges itself.

9: Reduces anxiety and depression

There’s a huge amount of scientific and medical evidence that proves that a lack of shut-eye has a significant negative impact on moods.

It can result in greater stress levels, feelings of sadness, anger and mental exhaustion.

The University of Pennyslyvania explored this very topic through a trial. Subjects who were limited to 4.5 hours of sleep per night for one week, reported feeling more stressed, angry, sad and mentally exhausted.

When people don’t get enough good quality sleep, their attention and concentration abilities decrease.

Reaction times are much longer, people become inattentive and don’t respond well to the environment around them.

12: Prevents accidents

Another life-saving benefit is that sleep is a powerful force that may prevent accidents.

Sleepy brains don’t make the best decisions. Low levels of alertness and poor reaction times is common in the sleep deprived.

It’s unsurprising that that the American Automobile Association (AAA) study has estimated that one out of every six deadly traffic accidents, and one out of eight crashes, requiring hospitalization of car drivers or passengers is due to drowsy driving

Another credible study, frequently referenced, has revealed that a lack of sleep has similar effects to alcohol intoxication on certain aspects of the brain.

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https://www.thegoodbody.com/benefits-of-sleeping-early/feed/0Sleep Gifts: 10 Ideas for Those in Need of a Better Night’s Slumberhttps://www.thegoodbody.com/sleep-gifts/
https://www.thegoodbody.com/sleep-gifts/#respondFri, 18 Jan 2019 00:01:27 +0000https://www.thegoodbody.com/?p=5420Whether you know a full-blown insomniac, light sleeper or someone just in need of a good night’s sleep, we have the perfect gift. From a little affordable treat to a stylish gadget, there are sleep gifts for everyone. Light up your life 1. Philips Wake-Up Light With Colored Sunrise Simulation This is the perfect sleep …

Whether you know a full-blown insomniac, light sleeper or someone just in need of a good night’s sleep, we have the perfect gift. From a little affordable treat to a stylish gadget, there are sleep gifts for everyone.

Light up your life

1. Philips Wake-Up Light With Colored Sunrise Simulation

This is the perfect sleep gift for anyone that struggles to wake up and deems themselves ‘not a morning’ person. It’s an absolute life-changer that has been scientifically proven to work.

Don’t just take our word for it! Philips commissioned independent scientific research that highlighted the huge benefits of dawn simulation on the wake-up experience.

Did you know that starting your day with a good amount of sunlight resets the circadian rhythm (also known as your body clock) so you can bounce out of bed feeling more energized?

This clock plays to this fact and does just the trick! Cleverly mimicking nature’s sunrise and combining light therapy with sound, creating a totally soothing way to wake up.

There are 20 different light settings, from soft dawn reds to warm orange and bright yellow light. Colors slowly change as the waking up process begins. To help with the rising and shining, three programed nature sounds or FM radio can be selected.

If that wasn’t enough, the sunset simulation function will relax the mind and help the drifting-off process in the first place.

Help improve the sleep, energy and well-being of your nearest and dearest.

A top sleep gadget

2. Withings/Nokia Sleep Tracking Pad

This sleep gift is for anyone that enjoys a slick gadget and wants to be in the know.

We can’t improve our sleep if we don’t know what is going on with our sleep. Lack of knowledge won’t lead to blissful ignorance, but grogginess, weight gain and potentially serious illnesses.

The pad is a real game-changer. It can be easily slipped under mattresses, and its advanced sensors will provide everything there is to know about sleep, including: sleep duration, depth, interruptions, sleep schedule and the time taken to fall asleep and wake up.

It all syncs through the WiFi and is loaded straight into the app, results will then appear automatically in text or graphic format. The built-in sleep coaching program acts as a best friend, providing much needed guidance and reassurance.

Lazier ones in your life will love the fact that it can control the thermostat and lights, enabling you to create the optimal conditions for sleep.

Getting into bed, then simply switching the lights off, hitting the pillow and checking out stats in the morning can now be a reality, not a dream!

Your nose knows best

3. Urpower Essential Oil Aromatherapy Diffuser

Never underestimate the importance of the nose in the whole sleep process. Certain smells have a huge effect on sleep, as well as memory and emotions.

Take lavender, a powerful aid not only for inducing but also enhancing the quality of sleep:

Its scent has been shown to lower blood pressure, heart rate and skin temperature – the three essential ingredients for a good night’s sleep.

Add the essential oils of choice (purchased separately) to the diffuser for the ultimate relaxation experience: they’ll help with unwinding and improving sleep quality. The perfect gifts for insomniacs.

It is super easy to use and more importantly, quiet. Take some water, a few drops of essential oils and select the LED light setting for the right mood.

Don’t be fooled into thinking this is just a gift for sleep and bedroom use though. Diffusers are highly versatile and provide a great way to control ambience, they can be used in any room.

Why not add some lemongrass and lime to get that lovely health spa style aroma!?

A miracle pillow

5. ComfySleep Rectangular Buckwheat Hull Pillow

As one third of our lives is spent in bed, it’s crucial to pick the right pillow. ComfySleep’s buckwheat hull pillow is a lovely gift for that person who is tired of waking up riddled in pains.

Buckwheat hull pillows have actually been around for centuries.

But what exactly is a buckwheat hull we hear you ask?

It’s the outer shell of buckwheat seeds, the part that’s left over when the seeds are processed.

As they are slightly cupped, triangular and smooth, there are thousands of tiny air pockets between them when arranged in a pillow. Great for anyone who sleeps hot as they don’t radiate or hold heat like a memory foam pillow does, providing a cool night’s sleep.

Buckwheat is natural and hypoallergenic, giving the much needed support throughout the night.

This versatile pillow can be customized by the recipient of this thoughtful gift, using the extra hulls provided. It will also provide the perfect alignment for the neck, shoulders and spine – excellent for sleep posture.

Real care has gone into the design – the fabric used started off as organically grown cotton from Texas, that was then milled into tightly woven cotton twill.

Gone are the days of tolerating lumpy pillows, sweating in your sleep and suffering in silence.

What is going on in our homes?!

6. Awair 2nd edition

What to buy the techie!? Hmmm… one of the best sleep tech gift ideas is this air quality monitor from Awair. Let them analyze the air in their home, find out what’s going on and then take preventative measures.

If you think homes are safe, think again:

Indoor air can be anywhere from two to five times as polluted as air outside. Fine dust, chemicals, carbon dioxide, humidity and temperature have a huge effect on air quality.

Now is the time to get wise and take action thanks to Awair! Decades of research has gone into this nifty machine but it won’t blind you with science.

It provides a neat snapshot of what is going on, allocating a score to air quality and providing personalized tips through the app. If that wasn’t enough, the smart timeline function enables changes to be tracked over time so progress can be analyzed.

Easy to set up, mobile and can be placed in any room. Help your loved ones keep their homes safe – by being Awair!

Must-read alert!

7. Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams By Matthew Walker

Are you looking for a thoughtful but affordable gift? This international and New York Times bestseller is a must-read for anyone in need of a good night’s sleep.

Why?

It contains all the answers to the fundamental question: what happens if you don’t get enough sleep?

Written by leading expert in this field, Matthew Walker, this book will not only be a real awakening but could potentially save lives (yes, you did read that right!).

Walker is currently Professor of Neuroscience and Psychology at the University of California, as well as founder and director of the Center for Human Sleep Science. This is why there’s a ton of cutting-edge scientific research spanning 20 years, presented in an easy-to-digest way.

Find out the mind-blowing dangers of not getting enough sleep, and the huge benefits when people do.

Did you know that regularly sleeping less than six or seven hours a night increases your risk of cancer by 50%? That’s just one of many facts shared with us.

There are loads of actionable tips about how to ensure we all claim our full night’s sleep. This page-turner will send anyone to sleep – but in a good way!

Made with 100% breathable natural cotton and filled with premium glass beads that are non-toxic, odorless and evenly distributed, the blanket allows for that essential comfort in bed.

This isn’t just to be used in the bedroom when it’s cold. It comes with a removable cover that will give a cosy and cool feeling in the summer. It’s also handy when on the couch watching tv or reading a book.

Remember that due to its effects, it’s not just for poor sleepers. It’s suitable for anyone that has a restless mind, feels stressed or edgy.

It will do wonders for both mental health and sleep, so give that hug! One of the best gifts to help your friends and family sleep well.

]]>https://www.thegoodbody.com/sleep-gifts/feed/0Insomnia Statistics: The Rise In This (Frightening) Epidemichttps://www.thegoodbody.com/insomnia-statistics/
https://www.thegoodbody.com/insomnia-statistics/#respondMon, 10 Dec 2018 00:02:51 +0000https://www.thegoodbody.com/?p=4694You only need to look at the latest sleep statistics to realize that the world is simply not getting enough rest! Insomnia in particular is on the rise, but how bad is the problem and who is suffering the most? Key Findings and Statistics about Insomnia Approximately one in four Americans develop insomnia each year …

One in four Americans develop insomnia each year.

According to a study conducted by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine in 2018, the latest data shows that 25% of the population experience acute insomnia each year, with 6% finding that the condition develops in to chronic insomnia over the course of the year.

Cost of Insomnia

As the number of people suffering from insomnia in the US grows, so does the costs and spends associated with it.

Insomnia costs the US Government more than $15 billion per year in healthcare costs.

The US economy loses $63 billion each year from reduced productivity related to insomnia.

According to results from the America Insomnia Survey, published by the US National Library of Medicine, this $63 billion in lost revenue comes from a reduced productivity level or absence and is equivalent to the whole population missing 252.7 days of work each year. That is one big sick day!

Employers spend roughly $3,200 more in employee healthcare costs for workers who suffer from insomnia.

This astronomical cost includes drugs used to treat insomnia, as well as other non-pharmacological treatments that are used to try and manage the condition such as cognitive behavioural therapy and hypnotherapy.

Causes and Effects

It’s no surprise that insomnia can have a real impact on your health, but what is causing the rise in the first place?

17% of US adults now spend at least 60 hours per week in the office, leaving less time for sleep.

35% of people suffering from insomnia report a family history of the condition.

In fact recent research published in Molecular Psychiatry, which looked at the sleep pattern of 30,000 US soldiers, found that inheriting certain genes might make you more prone to suffering from sleeplessness, however currently the one particular gene has not yet been identified.

83% of people who suffer from depression also experience symptoms of insomnia.

Did You Know?

People with insomnia are 20 times more likely to develop a panic disorder.

Up to 5% of the total proportion of obesity in adults could be attributed to sleep disorders such as insomnia.

The review of relevant research published by the US National Library of Medicine, found that insomnia in pregnancy was a wide spread problem, with women finding the condition worse in the third trimester.

Women were trying to catch up on sleep during the day with 15% of pregnant women reporting one weekday nap and 60% reporting at least one weekend nap.

Age and Gender

Looking at the stats more closely, there does appear to be patterns in certain groups who are more prone to the condition.

Roughly 27% of working women suffer from insomnia, compared to 20% of working men.

The data was gathered during an American Insomnia Study conducted by Harvard Medical School on a sample of 7,428 respondents.

The study focussed on sleep patterns and work performance and identified not only gender differences, but also differences in education level.

Those with a higher level of education are more likely to suffer from insomnia.

Did You Know?

Sleeping under a weighted blanket has even been proven to help those who suffer from insomnia.

Worldwide studies suggest that up to 50% of the world’s population suffer from insomnia.

Data is not currently available that can tell us precisely which country suffers from insomnia the most, however a tool, known as The Sleep Loss Map, created by the furniture company Hillarys, tracks tweets about sleep throughout the world to gain an insight in to which countries are the most sleep deprived.

15% of the population of China suffer from insomnia symptoms, lower than the rates reported in Western countries.

Studies suggest, 76% of the population of Brazil suffer from at least one sleep disorder, one of the highest rates in the world.

Currently there appears to be no major worldwide study that ranks countries, though initial research suggests that Brazil has one of the highest rates of insomnia which experts believe could be down to socioeconomic factors.

]]>https://www.thegoodbody.com/insomnia-statistics/feed/0Sleep Statistics Reveal The (Shocking) Cost To Health And Societyhttps://www.thegoodbody.com/sleep-statistics/
https://www.thegoodbody.com/sleep-statistics/#respondMon, 10 Dec 2018 00:01:37 +0000https://www.thegoodbody.com/?p=4599The facts don’t lie, we’re not getting enough sleep. Whether you suffer from a chronic case of insomnia or you’re just feeling a little sleep deprived, take a look at how everyone else is doing, and the impact a lack of sleep can have on your health. Key Findings and Statistics about Sleep 35% of …

]]>The facts don’t lie, we’re not getting enough sleep. Whether you suffer from a chronic case of insomnia or you’re just feeling a little sleep deprived, take a look at how everyone else is doing, and the impact a lack of sleep can have on your health.

Key Findings and Statistics about Sleep

35% of Americans don’t get the recommended seven hours of sleep each night.

Americans currently get on average 6.8 hours of sleep each night.

In 1910 the average person slept 9 hours a night.

Roughly 20% of Americans have a sleep disorder.

Since 1985 the percentage of adults getting less than six hours sleep each night has increased by 31%.

Sleep Disorders

From sleep apnea to sleep paralysis, there are a number of shocking statistics that reveal the increase in sleep disorders:

According to a study by the US Department of Health and Human Services, roughly 20% of Americans have a sleep disorder.

It’s estimated that 27% of adults in America have trouble sleeping most nights, according to a new Consumer Report, which surveyed 4,023 adults.

With 68%, roughly 164 million Americans, struggling with sleep at least once a week. Reasons for the difficultly in falling asleep included the fact that Americans now work longer hours, as well as the use of electronic devices before bed.

There are a number of different treatments available, with sleep labs growing in popularity across the country.

The labs, such as the West Region Sleep Center in Ohio, are run by sleep medicine doctors who monitor the heart rate, breathing and eye movements of patients whilst they sleep for diagnosis and sleep optimization.

In the mid 1970s there were a handful of sleep labs providing treatment across the USA, today there are nearly 3,000.

Since 1985 the percentage of adults getting less than six hours sleep each night has increased by 31%.

In fact in a recent survey of 444,306 Americans in all 50 states, conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 35% said they got less than 7 hours of sleep a night. The CDC recommends that adults aged 18 to 60 get at least 7 hours of sleep per night.

Age Groups

Children need more sleep than adults to function effectively, however the statistics show that they’re not necessarily getting it. Experts recommend the following amounts of sleep per age group:

Infants 4-12 months: 12 – 16 hours (including naps)

Child 1 – 2 years: 11 – 14 hours (including naps)

Child 3 – 5 years: 10 – 13 hours (including naps)

Child 6 – 12 years: 9 – 12 hours

Teenager: 8 – 10 hours

Adult: 7 – 9 hours

However despite the sleep needs of each generation being clear, every age group appears to be reporting a lack of sleep, with teenage sleep deprivation being particularly problematic.

A recent study conducted by the CDC in to short sleep duration, which is classed as less than 7 hours in a 24 hour period, found that the 25-54 year old age group appeared to be getting the least sleep:

32% of 18-24 age group reported short sleep duration

38% of 25-34 age group reported short sleep duration

38% of 35-44 age group reported short sleep duration

39% of 45-54 age group reported short sleep duration

36% of 55-64 age group reported short sleep duration

26% of 65+ age group reported short sleep duration

97% of teenagers get less than the recommended amount of sleep each night.

A study published in the Journal of Youth and Adolescence found that though teenagers need around nine hours of sleep each night, the average teenager was getting just 6.5 hours every weekday night.

The percentage of babies sharing a sleep surface with an adult rose from 6.5% in 1993 to 13.5% in 2010.

Research suggests that parents co-sleeping with their child is increasing, with a number of worrying co-sleeping statistics coming to light.

The National Infant Sleep Position Study published in the US National Library of Medicine found that though medical advice did not recommend co-sleeping, the occurrence had increased among the groups tested.

More than 50% of parents surveyed said they had not received any advice about the safety of co-sleeping from their doctor.

“Too many babies in this country are lost to sleep-related deaths that might be prevented. We must do more to ensure every family knows the AAP recommendations – babies should sleep on their backs, without any toys or soft bedding, and in their own crib. Parents are encouraged to share a room with the baby, but not the same bed.”

Sleep Medication

With people struggling more and more with sleep you’ll be unsurprised to hear that the use of sleep medication is rising.

The study published by the CDC, based on data from the National Health and Nutrition Survey, found that the prescribing of sleeping pills was rising significantly. In fact since 1993, the prescribing of sleep medication has risen by over 230% from 2.7 million!

4% of adults aged over 20 have used prescription sleep aids in the past month.

The data compiled from the aforementioned National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey showed that there were also patterns amongst gender and age groups, with more people over 80 using sleep aids, particularly women.

According to a major longitudinal study published by the BMJ, those who had regularly taken sleeping pills were 35% more likely to be diagnosed with cancer.

The study revealed that sleeping pills could have potentially caused 320,000 to 507,000 extra deaths in the US in 2010.

Further research is needed in to the impact of sleep medication, however the controversial study suggested the use of the sleeping aids could be as detrimental to your health as smoking.

Worldwide Sleep

The US might not be getting enough sleep, but it seems the rest of the world is a little sleep deprived too. In fact America doesn’t even rate in the top 5 for lack of sleep across the globe.

According to a recent study published in Science Advance, collated from smartphone data through an app called Entrain, the countries with the worst sleepers include:

Average adult in Japan = 5 hours and 59 minutes

Average adult in Saudi Arabia = 6 hours and 8 minutes

Average adult in Sweden = 6 hours and 10 minutes

Average adult in India = 6 hours and 20 minutes

Average adult in The Philippines = 6 hours and 22 minutes

The data also revealed the most well-rested countries:

Average adult in New Zealand = 7 hours and 30 minutes

Average adult in The Netherlands = 7 hours and 28 minutes

Average adult in Finland = 7 hours and 26 minutes

Average adult in Great Britain = 7 hours and 24 minutes

Average adult in Ireland = 7 hours and 22 minutes

Want more sleep? Move to South Dakota!

The amount of sleep the average American gets varies depending on the state in which you live.

A huge state-focussed study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention was carried out that found that the people of Hawaii were the most sleep deprived, with South Dakota the most rested state.